Phil Mickelson is still no Tiger. Who in history is? But he’s the second most intriguing player of this era.

Which gives the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, which starts today, at least a dash of interest. Besides tuning in to see how bad Justin Timberlake’s swing is in the celebrity field, the attraction of the Bob Hope comes in Phil’s season debut. It’s always interesting to see what Mickelson comes back with after spending some extended time with the family (Has anyone had a more debated Halloween trick or treating with the kids?)

Mickelson always seems to make some adjustment in his offseason. What will it be this year?

I’ve been a frequent Phil critic, never expected him to win that second major at Baltusrol. (Then again, everyone has to be wrong once.) Even if Tiger did make it a little easier for him by not being Tiger and flying away rather than showing up as an intimidating clubhouse leader on Monday. But there’s no doubt Mickelson makes the tour a more interesting place.

And I’m not just saying that because Mickelson’s personal trainer now blogs for us and looks like he could bodyslam me with one finger. It would sure be nice if Mickelson actually showed up at more than one major this year though. Enough of this 33rd at the U.S. Open and 60th at the British Open.

Golf needs to have Phil around as a lightning rod in its big events. Heck, we need the old Phil. Surely, he can tell us that he bet on the Steelers to knock off the Colts. Something.

Of course, no one will ever convince me he’s as good of a guy as his little brother Tim. Now that’s a down to earth Mickelson (check out this story.)